An E. coli outbreak linked to organic carrots has resulted in one death and 39 reported cases of illness across 18 states, prompting a nationwide recall.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the outbreak on Sunday, which has led to 15 hospitalizations. The contaminated carrots, supplied by Grimmway Farms of Bakersfield, California, were sold under several major brands, including Nature’s Promise, Wegmans, and Trader Joe’s.
The recall involves both organic whole carrots and organic baby carrots, which were distributed to retailers nationwide, including in Puerto Rico and Canada. The products in question were sold under a variety of brand names, including 365, Cal-Organic, Good & Gather, and O-Organics, with dates ranging from August 14 to October 23 for whole carrots, and from September 11 to November 12 for baby carrots. Some of the products do not have best-if-used-by dates printed on the packaging.
The CDC urges consumers to check their refrigerators and dispose of any recalled carrots. While the products are no longer available on store shelves, many bags could still be in homes. For those who have come into contact with the recalled items, the CDC advises thoroughly washing items and surfaces that may have been exposed to the carrots.
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically manifest between two to eight days after exposure and include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and nausea. In some cases, E. coli can lead to kidney failure, particularly in young children and older adults. The CDC has warned that a significant number of cases may go unreported, as many individuals recover without medical care or are not tested for E. coli.
This outbreak follows a recent E. coli scare involving McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers, which was linked to contaminated onions. That incident infected over 100 individuals and led to one fatality.
The states most affected by the current outbreak include Minnesota, New York, and Washington. The recall serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks posed by foodborne illnesses, and health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
For those who suspect they may have consumed the affected carrots, the CDC advises seeking medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, bloody diarrhea, or signs of dehydration appear.
With input from Axios, the Washington Post, the New York Times, USA Today.
